Track renewal between Weiherhammer and Weiden: working round the clock for DB InfraGO AG

On behalf of DB InfraGO AG, SWIETELSKY is currently carrying out a comprehensive track renewal project on the Weiherhammer–Weiden line. The works will take place between 13 April 2026 and 28 May 2026 and will be carried out around the clock under challenging conditions.

The construction project involves a total of 7,154 m of track renewal, including ballast cleaning, partial subgrade improvement and the conventional installation of a PSS. As part of the mechanised track renewal, a total of 11,660 new sleepers will be laid using a continuous-track method. These include 11,405 B70 sleepers, 126 B90 sleepers, 43 plastic sleepers, 68 FS 150 W-S54 SO sleepers and 18 catch devices.

Another aspect of the project involves changing the sleeper spacing from 65 cm to 60 cm, which means that fewer old sleepers will be removed than new ones installed. In addition, 1,747 metres of track have already been flushed and inspected by camera. A further 78 hectometres of track panels also need to be replaced before the line is put back into service.

Comprehensive track and civil engineering services
Key project deliverables include:
•    7.154 m of mechanised track renewal 
•    1.898 m of subgrade improvement using the PM 200-2R 
•    4.038 m of ballast cleaning using the RM 85–750 
•    approximately 4.250 tonnes of ballast residue removed from the track structure 
•    3.252 m of construction of a track-side path in accordance with DB specifications 
•    1.712 m of profiling of railway ditches 
•    111 track marking points for permanent track marking 
•    Renewal of 2 level crossings

The ballast cleaning was carried out over three day shifts. During this process, the ballast residues were transported to the staging area using 9 MFS units from Eurailpool. Subsequently, a ‘permanent’ tamping run using the 09-4X ensured that the track was safe for rail vehicles to use.

The mechanical track renewal is being carried out using the RUS 1000 S over a length of 7,154 m in five scheduled day shifts.

Supplementary work using conventional methods

In addition to the mechanical track renewal, work is being carried out using conventional methods over a length of 732 m. Over a length of 660 m, the track panels were removed section by section using the KRC 1200, moved and stored to the side for reinstallation. Following the complete removal of the old ballast and an explosive ordnance survey, a new track bed was constructed using fresh ballast. The old track panels that had been temporarily stored were then retrieved, moved lengthways and installed to close the gaps.

In addition, SaFeG, acting as a subcontractor, is responsible for the design, structural analysis and installation of 432 metres of edge walkway.

High demands on preparation and logistics

A particular challenge of the project was the very short preparation time, as the contract was awarded at short notice. Consequently, the demands placed on work planning, materials procurement and organisational coordination were considerable.

In addition, three storage areas were required, rented and set up to accommodate both old and new materials for the project. These areas are a key part of the site logistics and ensure that the work runs smoothly.

A short-notice military exercise by the Bundeswehr at Weiden station also created an unusual set of circumstances. The exercise involved practising the loading of military equipment onto railway wagons. Construction site logistics were also affected by this at times, requiring additional coordination and a high degree of flexibility from all those involved.

Working together for an efficient rail infrastructure

The Weiherhammer–Weiden project demonstrates once again just how crucial precise planning, high-performance machinery and well-coordinated teams are to the successful completion of complex railway construction projects.

We would like to thank all our colleagues and partner companies who are carrying out this challenging project with great dedication, a high level of expertise and total commitment.